Android vulnerability lets hackers record calls

A security flaw that allows hackers to record phone calls and monitor a user's location has been found in Google's Android mobile operating system.

This isn't linked to a particular handset either, as phones from Samsung, Motorola and HTC are all vulnerable due to the amount of free reign applications are given. Each app has the ability to bypass several security measures, including requiring permission from the user before accessing personal information.

The potential for harm was discovered by scientists at North Carolina State University, who believe this constitutes the most pressing mobile security problem at this time. "Particularly, smartphones with more pre-loaded apps tend to be more likely to have explicit capability leaks," they said.

The Inquirer reports that currently the worst device for this security hole is the HTC Evo, with a total of eight leaks in its system. The HTC Legend follows with six, and the Nexus One and Nexus S suffer from one potential leak apiece.

As the most popular smartphone operating system for new buyers, it's not surprising that Android seems to have been the main target for hackers and system breakers in the past few months. In the same way that Windows systems have received far more focus from the hacking community over the years, Android could become the OS of choice for those wishing to see what they can hack together.

With this in mind, it's no wonder that Twitter bought up Android security firm Whisper Systems, even if some Google employees consider it all a waste of time.